Travelbag produces new guides to save clients from cultural gaffes
Which of these gestures is considered rude in Argentina and parts of the Middle East?
Travelbag has created travel etiquette guides after its research found British holidaymakers were committing cultural gaffes because they were unaware of local customs.
Just 14% of respondents to its survey claimed to have researched local etiquette before they travelled, leaving the rest at risk of inadvertently offending their hosts.
As a result, Travelbag has created a set of etiquette guides using the knowledge of its locally-based travel advisors.
They contain, says the operator, handy dos and don’ts for the most popular destinations, including Japan, Argentina, Australia, Thailand and China.
Marketing director Paul Hopkinson said: "By taking a bit of time to learn about the traditions and customs of the places they’re visiting, holidaymakers can get more out of the experience when they’re there – and avoid potential offence and embarrassment in the process. We’re really pleased to pull on the knowledge of our well-travelled team to help our customers get clued up before they go – and come home with a lifetime of great memories."
Hopkinson continues, "By taking a bit of time to learn about the traditions and customs of the places they’re visiting, holidaymakers can get more out of the experience when they’re there – and avoid potential offence and embarrassment in the process. We’re really pleased to pull on the knowledge of our well-travelled team to help our customers get clued up before they go – and come home with a lifetime of great memories."
Travelbag’s research reveals that two-thirds of Brits were oblivious that it can be considered rude to tip in Japan and 80% didn’t know it’s insulting to tip in China, where it can be seen to imply that the employee isn’t valued by their employer.
Also, nearly two-thirds were oblivious to the fact the ‘OK’ sign is offensive in Argentina and other parts of South America. The sign also translates as ‘money’ in Japan, potentially leading to confusing conversations about the bill.
Over half would use a ‘thumbs up’ with locals abroad, unaware that it could cause bemusement in Thailand, be confused for the number ‘5’ in Japan or cause offence in Argentina and parts of the Middle East.
Even mishandling chopsticks can cause offence in Japan, according to Travelbag, who pointed out that leaving them sticking upright in a bowl of rice symbolises the deathbed in Japan and is seen as offensive.
Further tips are available from the Travelbag blog.
Linsey McNeill
Editor Linsey McNeill has been writing about travel for more than three decades. Bylines include The Times, Telegraph, Observer, Guardian and Which? plus the South China Morning Post. She also shares insider tips on thetraveljournalist.co.uk
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